The 2007 LOIOS Tinto is a typical Southern Portuguese blend, including Aragonez, Trincadeira and Castelao, fermented in stainless steel tanks. It is light and bright, pointed and focused, with a bit of a gamey overlay that I rather liked, but may not be to everyone's taste. I do not think it will hold terribly well, but it does have some evident structure. It is a refreshing wine that delivers a lot of value for the money. Drink now-2011. Importers: for Loios, Vila Santa and Quinta da Vicosa brands: Winebow, Inc., Montvale, N.J.; tel: (201) 445-0620; for Marques de Borba brand and Red Leg: Signature Imports, Mansfield, MA; tel: (800) 669-0750 (in New England, New Jersey, N.Y.) and HGC Imports, San Jose, CA; tel: (408) 947-8511 (for Arizona, California, Oregon, Washington State and Colorado); for Conde de Vimioso (Falua) brand: Vinum Importing, Redmond, WA; tel. (206) 621-8843 (Washington, Portland and California) and Aidil Wines & Liquors, a division of Olde World Imports, Inc., Rahway, NJ; tel. (973) 642-0044 (New England, New Jersey and New York).

A new branded wine from one of the Alentejo’s star producers, this red is ripe, fresh, full of red berry fruits, and a good ripe earthiness from fruit tannins. No sign of wood here, just ripe, rich fruit.——R.V.(7/1/2008)—— 85

A ripe, spicy wine, with attractive, easy black fruits. It is soft and full, with forward fruitiness and sweet tannins. Very ready, very drinkable.——R.V.(11/1/2008)—— 84